[Local Songs] Recommended tracks packed with Japan’s nationwide classics and hometown pride

Sataro of IzuKokichi Takada

Sataro of Izu

One of Hiroyoshi Takada’s signature songs that gloriously marked his postwar comeback, “Sataro of Izu.” Set on the spring-hazed roads of Izu, this classic matabi-kayō (itinerant traveler ballad) portrays a wanderer returning to his hometown.

After crossing the Amagi mountains, which emerge faintly like ink wash painting, the protagonist finally reaches familiar soil.

Yet he wavers—should he meet old acquaintances, or slip away as he is? That inner conflict intertwines exquisitely with Takada’s stylish, resonant vocals and the wistful tones of the shamisen, seeping deeply into the listener’s heart.

By the time the song ends, you’re enveloped in a bittersweet, abundant feeling, as though you had watched a full period drama on film.

Chikuma Ko-utaLyrics by Fuyokyu Masaki / Music by Shimpei Nakayama

Chikuma Ko-uta

This is an evocative kouta (short traditional song) with lyrics by Fuyokyu Masaki and music by Shimpei Nakayama, born in the hot spring region along the Chikuma River.

Created in the early Showa era to convey the charms of Togura-Kamiyamada Onsen, the piece is a masterpiece that exudes Nakayama’s distinctive “Shimpei-bushi,” imbued with love for his hometown of Nagano.

Its Japanese-style melody, using the yonanuki scale, beautifully expresses the atmosphere of the hot-spring town and the flow of the Chikuma River.

Beloved at local events and in tourism promotions, the song is also presented at the Shimpei Nakayama Memorial Museum along with his achievements.

Through the steam of the baths, nostalgic scenes are sure to come to mind.

Hakuba Mountain Foothillshunter

Hunter: “At the Foot of Mount Hakuba”

This song, which sings of a longing for snowy northern landscapes and majestic mountains, is a classic distinguished by the beautiful harmonies of Kariudo.

Its lyrics delicately portray the feelings of someone who has left their hometown, resonating deeply and conjuring vivid images of mountain ranges cloaked in white snow.

Released in July 1980, the piece is arranged with a folk foundation while incorporating pop elements, and the warm tones of the acoustic guitar lend the entire track a rich depth.

Recommended for those who carry feelings for their hometown or who seek comfort in the beauty of nature.

Hell EstheticianSelf-styled Tourism Association

Oita Prefecture Local Song 'Hellish Esthetician' / Unofficial Sightseeing Association

This is a playful local song about Oita Prefecture by the duo Miura Jun and Hazama Hajime, known as the Self-Styled Tourism Association.

The striking title, “Hell’s Esthetician,” is said to be inspired by Beppu Onsen’s famous ‘Hell Tour.

’ The lyrics parade the names of the various ‘hells,’ delivered in an irresistibly upbeat, festival-like tune.

In between, it also slips in local specialties like Bungo beef and dango-jiru, which might surprise some listeners with the sheer density of information.

Give it a listen as a companion for your trip to Oita, and your journey might become even more enjoyable.

Miyazaki BluesKenzo Tsukamoto

Kenzo Tsukamoto “Miyazaki Blues” MV (Released July 1, 2020)

This is a song for which Kenzo Tsukamoto himself wrote the lyrics and composed the music, filled with his unending love for his hometown of Miyazaki.

It is said to be a song of resolve, marking his pledge to make a fresh start as a singer at the milestone of his sixtieth birthday.

The lyrics depict a forlorn man wandering through places of memories—such as the Oyodo River and Nichinan—in search of someone he parted with.

Some listeners may find themselves overlaying their own unfulfilled love onto his wistful, retreating figure.

The arrangement beautifully conveys the world of Showa-era mood kayō, woven together with the soul-stirring tones of the guitar.

Tsukamoto’s rugged, seasoned voice seems to deepen the portrayal of Miyazaki’s scenery and the protagonist’s emotions even further.

Takachiho GorgeYuko Oka

Takachiho Gorge

This is a lyrical enka song by Yuko Oka—also known as the “Singing Map of Japan”—set against Miyazaki Prefecture’s famed scenic spot, Takachiho Gorge.

You can almost picture the view of Manai Falls from a boat and the myth-steeped landscape of the gorge.

Though the lyrics tell of parting from a loved one, Oka’s gentle, tender vocals interweave with the grand depictions of nature, as if to softly cradle a wounded heart.

In fact, this piece is said to be a landmark song in which Oka completed her series of local songs for all 47 prefectures.

Perhaps that’s why it carries an especially deep affection for Miyazaki’s beautiful scenery.

Oita RiverChiharu Higashi

Oita River by Chiharu Azuma (Vocal)

Set against the majestic Oita River in Oita Prefecture, this is a song by Chiharu Azuma that richly conveys shifting human emotions and feelings for one’s hometown.

The lyrics are based on the work that won the top prize in a lyric contest held by the Oita Godo Shimbun, making it truly a piece woven from the hearts of local people.

Many listeners may find themselves empathizing with the way life is likened to the grand flow of the river, looking back with nostalgia while still facing forward.

The gently nostalgic melody of this kayokyoku evokes serene scenes of Oita in the mind.

For those living away from their hometown, this song may feel as if it speaks on their behalf.